Clip-on sunglasses have a novelty quality to them, but when it comes to practicality, they are no joke.
The functional frames have the ability to instantly transform an everyday pair of reading glasses into sunglasses. Not only is this unbelievably useful, but it’s also cost-effective.
You probably remember clip-on glasses as a thing of the past - something that was synonymous with the Nineties and sported by dads and pre-millennium tech-bros. As a result, the frames were unsurprisingly regarded as clunky and wildly uncool.
Technology has come a long way in the past 20 years and has formed a symbiotic relationship with fashion. This means improved clip-on designs and more importantly, improved clip-on aesthetics.
Brands such as RayBan, Jimmy Fairly and Ace + Tate have created clip-on models that are easy to wear, minimalistic and sleek. Designer houses quickly followed suit, with the likes of Missoni, Marc Jacobs and Moschino rolling out a handful of cult-status clip-ons. Even David Beckham, style extraordinaire, has released a collection of slick clip-ons - and if it’s good enough for Becks...
The once-divisive shades now come in a range of different shapes, sizes and colours. From sassy cat eyes to rounded lenses, there’s something for everyone on the market.
How did the accessory first infiltrate the fashion scene you ask? Clip-on lenses were invented in Massachusetts during the 1930s as a practical piece to reduce glare. Polaroid added an extra filter to regular glass lenses to ensure visibility in any weather. Originally designed with athletes in mind, the glasses were a technical invention as opposed to a fashion item. This started to shift when James Dean was seen wearing a pair of clip-ons in the 1956 flick Giant.
Fellow stars of the silver screen soon hopped on the bandwagon. In 1969, Jack Nicholson wore a pair of square clip-ons while filming Easy Rider. Fictional antagonists Doctor Otto Octavius in Spider-Man 2 played by Alfred Molina and Cypher in The Matrix played by Joe Pantoliano both stepped onto set in a pair of polarised clip-ons.
Outside of Hollywood, John Lennon championed the clip-on design during a photo shoot for his album Lennon Legend in 1997.
If the glittering clientele of clip-on glasses doesn't entice you, read on to discover the best clip-on frames for the utmost practicality and star status…
RayBan RB6355
Understated clip-ons have become a popular pick in RayBan’s arsenal. The affordable frames are available in two timeless shades and adopt a high-performance, optical style.
A best-seller, the RB6355 model is part of a new series of four clip-on lenses that are layered with a gradient mirror and 100 per cent UV protection. A fine fold metal structure adds a retro touch to the multi-dimensional sunnies.
Buy now £66.00, RayBan
Marc Jacobs Marc 672/CS 03K/IR
The ideal blend of fashion and function, Marc Jacobs’s sturdy shades have an on-trend rectangular shape, a rich black hue and a lightweight touch. The frames come with clip-on sunglasses featuring the brand’s bold logo monogram and gold accents to suit round-shaped faces.
Buy now £182.90, Alensa
Missoni MIS 0133/CS 086/LA
Italian fashion house Missoni may be known for its iconic chevron print, but have you checked out the glasses on offer? These cat-eye shades are ideal for oval face-shaped shoppers searching for something practical with pizzazz. The frame showcases a Havana pattern, a brown hue and a lightweight plastic composition. Complete with clip-on frames, the glasses promise a high-fashion, high-function accessory.
Buy now £161.90, Alensa
David Beckham DB 1075/CS WR9/C3
Footballing legend David Beckham is giving his wife Victoria a run for her money in the style department. The fashion design duo isn’t short of statement sunnies and David’s range of sunglasses showcases his sophisticated style.
These clip-ons have a rounded shape, a brown pigment and a beloved Havana pattern. They are equipped with flexible temple hinges, allowing you to transform your eyewear on the spot.
Buy now £152.90, Smart Buy Glasses
IOLLA Somerville Folding Clip-on
IOLLA’s polarised lenses are not only timeless, but they effectively block out glare from reflective surfaces and light. This enables the wearer to enjoy a relaxed vision without strain. The frames have a classic chrome gold rim with a vintage-style brown gradient for unisex appeal. They also fold up - an extra handy feature when playing sports or travelling.
Buy now £40.00, IOLLA
Crullé Fasten C1 Clip-on
The most affordable pair on our list, the Crullé Fasten C1 clip-ons are one of many that the brand has available. For under £40, you can bag yourself a classic pair of glasses with an extra frame for when the sun comes out. Marvel at the retro browline shape which will suit any face. Black and gold frames create a playful mix of sturdiness and simplicity for stylish men and women.
Buy now £37.90, Alensa
Love Moschino MOL058/CS G3I/70
Love pink? Love Moschino! These uber-feminine, rounded frames showcase a radiant blend of pink and purple tones. Topped off with flexible temple hinges, lightweight plastic and clip-on sunglasses, they present wearers with a durable designer staple. The brand’s logo is imprinted subtly on the arm in a decadent golden tone. Very Barbiecore.
Buy now £112.90, Alensa
Ace & Tate Neil Clip-on
Affordable without sacrificing quality, Ace & Tate’s clip-ons come in eight tempting shades. From satin gold to fresh mint, pick your favourite pair which come with 100 per cent UV protection and a minimalist design. Suitable for all genders, the frames will elevate any everyday outfit with ease.
Buy now £60.00, Ace & Tate
Jimmy Fairly Clip Season
Jimmy Fairly’s clip-on frames merge neo-retro gold accents with contemporary cat-eye lenses. Coined SPF for your eyes, the pair promises 100 per cent sun protection against UV rays of all kinds. Slip on with ease and allow the frames to take you from day to night with a clip-on clip-off design.
Buy now £59.00, Jimmy Fairly
